New Delhi | India’s defence modernisation received a major boost as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has begun developing the Pinaka Mark-4 guided rocket, a next-generation system capable of hitting targets up to 300 kilometres away with exceptional accuracy. According to defence sources, the new rocket will deliver near-cruise-missile precision, with an estimated Circular Error Probable (CEP) of under 3 metres. Yet, despite its advanced capabilities, the Mark-4 will cost only 25% of a typical cruise missile, making it a highly economical long-range strike option for the Indian…
Read MoreDay: December 8, 2025
Rajnath Singh Dedicates Galwan War Memorial to the Nation
Ladakh| India today marked a significant milestone in border infrastructure as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually dedicated 125 strategic projects to the nation from Ladakh. Among them was the long-awaited Galwan War Memorial, inaugurated without a single direct reference to China, even as the memorial honours the 20 Indian soldiers who were killed in the 2020 clash in eastern Ladakh. The ceremony was held near the newly built Shyok Tunnel, where the Defence Minister addressed the nation through a video link. During the event, he paid homage to the fallen…
Read MoreOman Hands Over Retired ‘Jaguar’ Jets to India, Aiding IAF Fleet Maintenance
New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) will continue operating its aging Jaguar fighter fleet for a few more years, thanks to a major support initiative from Oman, which has decided to provide India with over 20 retired Jaguar jets. These aircraft will serve as a critical source of spare parts, helping the IAF maintain operational readiness amid a global shortage of components. Background and Strategic NeedThe Jaguars, also known as ‘Shamsher’, were first inducted into India in 1979 and remain active across six squadrons. Over time, maintaining the fleet…
Read MoreDefence Minister Inaugurates BRO Road Projects in Bikaner, Boosting Border Connectivity
Bikaner: The Indian Army and local communities in Bikaner now have improved connectivity following the completion of multiple Border Roads Organisation (BRO) projects, inaugurated virtually by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Part of a larger initiative, the 125 critical road projects were executed at a cost of nearly ₹4,796 crore, benefiting border and remote areas while strengthening national security and local development. Key Roads UpgradedAmong the newly inaugurated roads, the Birdhawal-Puggal-Bajju stretch, approximately 49 km long, has been upgraded to National Highway standards. This development facilitates smoother travel for civilians and…
Read MoreIsrael Confirms Supply of 40,000 LMGs to India; Talks Continue on Advanced ‘Arbel’ Fire-Control Technology
New Delhi: India’s infantry firepower is set for a major boost as Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) has confirmed that it will deliver the first batch of 40,000 Light Machine Guns (LMGs) to the Indian Army early next year. The consignment is part of a multi‑year contract signed last year, and according to the company, all tests, trials and evaluations for the weapon system have been completed. Production licences have also been approved. The complete delivery is targeted for five years, though IWI has indicated it could accelerate the process if…
Read MoreIndia Lifts Ban on Several Defence Firms: Leonardo, ST Kinetics Can Now Participate in New Projects
New Delhi: The Government of India has lifted the long-standing ban on several foreign defence companies, including Italy’s Leonardo, allowing them to participate in new defence projects. The move comes as part of a broader policy review aimed at enhancing transparency, expanding procurement options, and strengthening defence cooperation. Background of the BanLeonardo had been barred from India since 2013–14 over alleged corruption in the VVIP helicopter deal. While the company faced accusations of bribery, India had cancelled all contracts with it at the time. The recent decision does not allow…
Read MoreIndia’s First Sleeper Vande Bharat Train to Hit Tracks Soon: Route, Facilities, and States Covered
New Delhi: Indian Railways is set to launch the country’s first Sleeper Vande Bharat train, offering a perfect blend of Tejas Express speed, Rajdhani-style comfort, and modern Vande Bharat technology, making long-distance travel faster and more comfortable for passengers. Train Preparations and Trial RunAccording to railway sources, two rakes are being prepared at the BEML factory in Bengaluru, with the first rake scheduled to depart for Northern Railway on 12 December 2025. The train’s trial run will be conducted on the Patna–Delhi route, and regular operations will commence after approval.…
Read MoreNew Rail Service for Padrauna, Gorakhpur: Chapra–Amritsar Express to Halt from 12 December 2025
Gorakhpur: Gorakhpur’s Padrauna town is set to receive a major boost in rail connectivity as the 15135/36 Chapra–Amritsar Express will start halting at Padrauna from 12 December 2025, Union Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Rajya Sabha. Currently, Padrauna is connected to the national railway network via Gorakhpur Junction and Thawri Junction, served by four pairs of mail/express trains and four pairs of passenger trains linking major cities including Delhi, Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Kanpur, Mathura, Jaipur, Ajmer, Ahmedabad, and Patna. The new stoppage…
Read MoreDetailed Project Report Ready for Bahraich–Jarwal Road New Railway Line, Eastern UP Connectivity Set to Get a Boost
Lucknow: In a significant development for Eastern Uttar Pradesh, the detailed project report (DPR) for the proposed new railway line between Bahraich and Jarwal Road has been finalized. Union Railways Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Lok Sabha on Tuesday that the survey for the 70-kilometer line has been completed, and the DPR is ready. Currently, Bahraich and Jarwal Road are connected via Gonda Junction. However, the new direct line will provide faster, smoother, and more efficient connectivity, reducing travel time and boosting the region’s economic, social, and industrial growth.…
Read MoreNewal Kishore Press Legacy Celebrated at Special Commemorative Gathering in Lucknow
Metaphor Lucknow LitFest & Le Press honour the pioneer who reshaped North India’s literary landscape Lucknow: Lucknow witnessed a reflective and deeply meaningful evening as Metaphor Lucknow LitFest and Le Press came together to host a special commemorative gathering celebrating the towering legacy of Newal Kishore Press—one of the most influential publishing institutions in South Asian history. Established in the 19th century, the press was instrumental in shaping the literary and intellectual discourse of North India. It pioneered Urdu, Persian, Sanskrit and Hindi publications at a scale never seen before,…
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